Portable solar-powered devices

ABSTRACT

Solar-powered lighting devices that may be portable and/or collapsible are described. The devices may include a housing including a first wall, a second wall, and one or more side walls between the first wall and the second wall, at least one solar panel to generate solar energy, and a rechargeable battery to store the solar energy generated. The devices may include a plurality of operating modes for controlling lights within the housing, and a microprocessor for controlling the operating modes.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.62/106,553 filed on Jan. 22, 2015, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to solar-powered lightingdevices. More particularly, embodiments of the present disclosureinclude portable, rechargeable lighting devices, such as lanternspowered by solar energy.

BACKGROUND

Certain situations require alternative lighting solutions, such asduring limited or interrupted power access, or a lack of poweraltogether. Examples include cases of natural disaster and otheremergencies, remote/rural locations far from a power station orelectricity grid, and developing countries that have limited and/orunreliable power. Yet, current lighting options are often short-lived,unreliable, inefficient, non-reusable/non-rechargeable, impractical,and/or expensive to produce and operate.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

A collapsible solar-powered lighting device comprising a housingincluding a first wall, a second wall opposite the first wall, and oneor more side walls extending between the first wall and the second wall,wherein the first wall, second wall, and one or more side walls definean inflatable bladder; at least one solar panel integrated into anoutside surface of at least one of the first wall and the second wall,thereby defining the at least one of the first wall and the second wallthat includes the at least one solar panel as an electronics wall of thehousing; a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) integrated into aninside surface of the electronics wall of the housing, the plurality ofLEDs forming a generally annular arrangement and facing an interior ofthe housing; a rechargeable battery integrated into the electronics wallbetween the inside surface of the electronics wall and the outsidesurface of the electronics wall, the rechargeable battery beingelectrically connected between the at least one solar panel and theplurality of LEDs, such that the rechargeable battery is configured tosupply current to the plurality of LEDs and be recharged by the at leastone solar panel; a button integrated into one or more of the first wall,the second wall, and the one or more side walls, the button beingselectable by a user to control an operating mode of the plurality ofLEDs; a microprocessor integrated into the electronics wall of thehousing between the inside surface of the electronics wall and theoutside surface of the electronics wall, the microprocessor beingelectrically connected to the button, the rechargeable battery, and theplurality of LEDs; and a current regulator coupled between therechargeable battery and the microprocessor, the current regulatormaintaining a threshold current delivered to the plurality of LEDs ascontrolled by the microprocessor; wherein the microprocessor isconfigured to control a plurality of operating modes of the LEDs, atleast one of the operating modes including changing a color of lightemitted from the housing such that a first press of the button causesthe plurality of LEDs to emit a first color of light, a second press ofthe button causes the plurality of LEDs to emit a second color of light,a third press of the button causes the plurality of LEDs to emit a thirdcolor of light, and an nth press of the button causes the plurality ofLEDs to initiate a transition sequence, the transition sequence causingthe plurality of LEDs to begin emitting the first color of light,gradually change to the second color of light, gradually change to thethird color of light, and gradually change to the nth color of light.

The present disclosure further includes an inflatable solar-poweredlighting device comprising: a housing including a first wall, a secondwall opposite the first wall, and one or more side walls extendingbetween the first wall and the second wall, wherein the first wall,second wall, and one or more side walls define an airtight inflatablebladder; at least one solar panel integrated into an outside surface ofat least one of the first wall and the second wall; a plurality oflight-emitting diodes (LEDs) integrated into an inside surface of the atleast one of the first wall and the second wall, the plurality of LEDsarranged in a generally annular arrangement and facing an interior ofthe airtight inflatable bladder defined by the first wall, second wall,and one or more side walls; a rechargeable battery integrated into theat least one of the first wall and the second wall between the insidesurface of the at least one of the first wall and the second wall andthe outside surface of the at least one of the first wall and the secondwall, the rechargeable battery being electrically connected between theat least one solar panel and the plurality of LEDs, such that therechargeable battery is configured to supply current to the plurality ofLEDs and be recharged by the at least one solar panel; a buttonintegrated into one or more of the first wall, the second wall, and theone or more side walls, the button being selectable by a user to controlan operating mode of the plurality of LEDs; a microprocessor integratedinto the at least one of the first wall and the second wall between theinside surface of the at least one of the first wall and the second walland the outside surface of the at least one of the first wall and thesecond wall, the microprocessor being electrically connected between thebutton, the battery, and the plurality of LEDs; and a current regulatorcoupled between the rechargeable battery and the microprocessor, thecurrent regulator maintaining a threshold current delivered to theplurality of LEDs as controlled by the microprocessor; wherein themicroprocessor is configured to control a plurality of operating modesof the LEDs, at least one of the operating modes including changing acolor of light emitted from the housing.

The present disclosure further includes a collapsible solar-poweredlighting device comprising: a housing including a first wall, a secondwall opposite the first wall, and one or more side walls extendingbetween the first wall and the second wall, wherein the first wall,second wall, and one or more side walls define an inflatable bladder; atleast one solar panel integrated into an outside surface of at least oneof the first wall and the second wall, the solar panel defining the atleast one of the first wall and the second wall as an electronics wallof the housing; a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) integratedinto an inside surface of the electronics wall of the housing, theplurality of LEDs arranged in a generally annular arrangement and facingan interior of the inflatable bladder defined by the first wall, secondwall, and one or more side walls; a rechargeable battery integrated intothe electronics wall of the housing between the inside surface of theelectronics wall and the outside surface of the electronics wall, therechargeable battery being electrically connected between the at leastone solar panel and the plurality of LEDs, such that the rechargeablebattery is configured to supply current to the plurality of LEDs and berecharged by the at least one solar panel; a button integrated into oneor more of the first wall, the second wall, and the one or more sidewalls, the button being selectable by a user to control an operatingmode of the plurality of LEDs; and a microprocessor integrated into theelectronics wall of the housing between the inside surface of theelectronics wall and the outside surface of the electronics wall, themicroprocessor being electrically connected between the button, thebattery, and the plurality of LEDs; wherein the microprocessor isconfigured to control a plurality of operating modes of the LEDs, atleast one of the operating modes including changing a color of lightemitted from the housing such that a first press of the button causesthe plurality of LEDs to emit a first color of light, a second press ofthe button causes the plurality of LEDs to emit a second color of light,and a third press of the button causes the plurality of LEDs to emit athird color of light.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate various exemplary embodiments andtogether with the description, serve to explain the principles of thedisclosed embodiments.

FIGS. 1A-1D show an exemplary device, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present disclosure, wherein FIG. 1C shows an explodedview of the device of FIG. 1A, and FIG. 1D shows an exemplary design onthe device of FIG. 1A.

FIGS. 2A and 2B show an exemplary device, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 3A-3C show an exemplary device, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present disclosure, wherein FIG. 3C shows an explodedview of the device of FIG. 3A.

FIGS. 4A-4C show an exemplary device, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 shows exemplary packaging for devices according to embodiments ofthe present disclosure.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate exemplary devices, in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate exemplary devices, in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary device, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate exemplary devices, in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate exemplary devices, in accordance with oneor more embodiments of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary device, in accordance with one or moreembodiments of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 12A and 12B show an exemplary device, in accordance with one ormore embodiments of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments of the present disclosure include solar-powered lightingdevices that may be portable and/or collapsible.

FIGS. 1A-1C illustrate an exemplary lighting device 100 comprising aninflatable housing 101, such that the device 100 may have a collapsedconfiguration (e.g., for storage, recharging, or otherwise when not inuse) and an expanded, inflated configuration (e.g., for use). Thehousing 101 may include a first wall 102, a second wall 104, and one ormore side walls 106 between the first wall 102 and the second wall 104,wherein the side wall(s) 106 may be collapsible, e.g., to allow thedevice 100 to deflate and inflate. For example, the first wall 102,second wall 104, and one or more side walls 106 may define an inflatablebladder. The first wall 102 and the second wall 104 may be positionedopposite each other, e.g., generally parallel, or any other suitableconfiguration. The devices of the present disclosure are not limited toany particular orientation for storage and/or while in use. For example,any of the first wall 102, the second wall 104, or the side wall(s) 106of device 100 may have an upward-facing orientation during use. Further,the orientation of the device 100 may be changed during use.

In some embodiments, the device 100, e.g., the housing 101 of the device100, may be airtight and/or watertight. For example, the device 100 maybe airtight and/or watertight in accordance with various industrialstandards or codes.

The housing 101 may have a generally cylindrical shape, as shown in FIG.1A (top view) and FIG. 1B (bottom view), comprising one generallycylindrical side wall 106. For example, the first and second walls 102,104 may be planar, and may have one generally cylindrical side wall 106therebetween. For example, the first and/or second walls 102, 104 may becircular (as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B), oval, or polygonal in shape(e.g., square, rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, octagonal, etc.). Thefirst and second walls 102, 104 may have the same size, or may havedifferent sizes. For example, the first wall 102 may be larger than thesecond wall 104, such that the housing 101 is tapered and wider towardsthe first end, or the second wall 104 may be larger than the first wall102, such that the housing 101 is tapered and wider towards the secondend. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the first wall 102and/or the second wall 104 may be foldable. For example, the first wall102 and/or the second wall 104 may be configured to fold, e.g., toachieve a smaller cross-sectional area or volume in the collapsedconfiguration.

The side wall(s) 106 may correspond to the shape of the first and/orsecond walls 102, 104. For example, the housing 101 may includepolygonal first and second walls 102, 104, and a plurality of side walls106 corresponding in number to the number of sides of the polygon. Insome embodiments, the first and/or second walls 102, 104 may bethree-dimensional, e.g., providing for a housing 101 having a sphericalor polyhedral shape (e.g., cube, pyramid, rectangle, star, etc.). Forexample, the housing 101 may have a spherical shape and include a soccerball design or a beach ball design incorporated into the housing 101.The housing 101 may include any combination of first wall 102, secondwall 104, and side wall(s) 106. For example, the first wall 102 may havea three-dimensional shape, such as a dome, and the second wall 104 mayhave a planar shape, such as a circle, oval, rectangle, or square, witha generally cylindrical side wall 106 therebetween.

The side wall(s) 106 of the housing 101 may be flexible to allow thehousing 101 to expand when inflated and collapse when deflated.Exemplary materials suitable for the side wall(s) 106 include plastics,e.g., polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), thermoplasticpolyurethane (TPU), and other polymers, in a flexible form, such as asheet. In some embodiments, the housing 101 may be transparent, e.g.,comprising a clear plastic material such as PVC or TPU. In someembodiments, at least a portion of the material comprising the housing101 may be biodegradable, e.g., a biodegradable polymer such asbiodegradable TPU. The first and/or second walls 102, 104 may berelatively more rigid than the side wall(s) 106, e.g., comprisingcardstock or a relatively rigid plastic material, to provide the device100 with sufficient stability to be free-standing when expanded. Any ofthe plastic materials used for the housing 101 may have a shiny or mattefinish. In some embodiments, the housing 101 may be configured toproduce a three-dimensional image, effect, or appearance.

The device 100 may be configured to emit light with a flashlight orspotlight effect. In some embodiments, the side wall(s) and/or secondwall 104 may direct light emitted within the housing 101 towards thefirst wall 102 to exit the housing. For example, the side wall(s) 106may include a translucent material providing for a frosted appearance oran opaque material that at least partially reflects light into thehousing 101 to exit through the first wall 102. The first wall 102 maycomprise a transparent or at least partially transparent material, suchas clear plastic, to allow the emitted light to pass therethrough.

The second wall 104 may include a solar panel 160, and one or more of apower button 180, a display 182, and a sensor 184. According to someembodiments of the present disclosure, each wall of the device thatincludes a solar panel may be referred to as an “electronics wall.”Thus, the second wall 104 of device 100 may comprise an electronicswall, and may include one or more electronic components and/orelectronic connections, e.g., as described below. The second wall 104may be configured to allow the solar panel 160 to be exposed to naturaland/or artificial light for charging/recharging the solar panel 160.

The display 182 may be an LED display, and be configured to communicateinformation about the device 100. For example, the display 182 mayinclude a power level indicator to indicate the relative (e.g.,percentage) and/or absolute amount of power or charge remaining in thedevice 100. The dimensions of the display 182 may be suitable fordisplaying images and/or words. The sensor 184 may be configured todetect light, sound, motion, moisture, or any combination thereof. In atleast one embodiment, the sensor 184 may be configured to detectenvironmental conditions such as lighting, sound, motion, and/ormoisture conditions, and to adjust a parameter of the device 100 (e.g.,power level, on/off, light intensity, and/or operating mode) based onthe detected environmental conditions. Power button 180, display 182,and/or sensor 184 may be positioned anywhere on the second wall 104other than as depicted in FIG. 1B, or anywhere on the first wall 102 orthe side wall(s) 106.

The device 100 may include a valve 110, e.g., extending through thefirst wall 102, to allow for the passage of air to inflate and deflatethe device 100. Closing the valve 110 may seal the housing 101 such thatthe housing 101 is airtight and watertight. In some embodiments, thelowermost portion of the valve 110 may lie against the inner surface ofthe first wall 102, with the upper portion of the valve 110 extendingabove the outer surface of the first wall 102 to allow the user toinflate and deflate the housing 101. The valve 110 may be flexible,e.g., comprising PVC or other suitable plastics or polymers. In someembodiments, for example, the upper portion of the valve 110 may bemovable through an opening in the first wall 102 (or other portion ofthe housing 101, such as a side wall 106 or the second wall 104) bypressing on the valve 110. Thus, a user may invert at least a portion ofthe valve 110 to provide for a planar outer surface of the housing 101.The valve 110 may be configured for manual and/or automated inflation.In some embodiments, the valve 110 may be a pinch valve. The sizedimensions of the valve 110 and/or its location on the housing 101 mayvary according to the size, shape, and configuration of the housing 101.

FIG. 1C shows an exploded view of the device 100, showing components ofthe first wall 102 and the second wall 104. For example, the second wall104 may include an inner panel 120 (e.g., a second inner panel 120 fordevices that include a first inner panel 130, discussed below), areflector 122, a printed circuit board (PCB) assembly 124, a frame 126,and an outer panel 128 (e.g., a second outer panel 128 for devices thatinclude a first outer panel 138, discussed below). The PCB assembly 124may include at least one battery 150, which may be operably connected tothe solar panel 160. For example, the battery 150 may be configured tostore energy generated by the solar panel 160. In some embodiments, thesolar panel 160 may be coupled to the surface of the PCB assembly 124opposite the surface that includes the battery 150. Exemplary batteries150 suitable for the device 100 include, but are not limited to,lithium-ion batteries such as a lithium-ion polymer, and lithium ironphosphate batteries. The battery 150 may generate a voltage from about2V to about 5V, such as from about 3V to about 4V, e.g., a voltage ofabout 3.2V, about 3.5V, or about 3.7V. The battery 150 may have acapacity up to at least 2000 mAh, such as a capacity of about 500 mAh,about 750 mAh, about 1000 mAh, about 1250 mAh, about 1500 mAh, about1750 mAh, or about 2000 mAh. For example, the capacity of the batterymay be sufficient to charge an electronic device such as a mobile phone,for example a smart phone (see discussion of devices 600, 700, 800, 900,1000, and 1100 below).

In some embodiments, the device 100 may include a power supply, e.g.,for use in addition to, or as an alternative to, solar power. Forexample, the device 100 may include a separate DC power supply. In someembodiments, the device 100 may include a first battery 150 configuredto store energy generated by the solar panel 160, and a second battery150 configured to power the display 182, e.g., to monitor the powerlevel of the first battery 150. The device 100 may include surgeprotection, e.g., to protect against voltage spikes, and/or may includea current regulator, e.g., to maintain a desired output of light. Forexample, a surge protector and/or current regulator may be coupled tothe PCB assembly 124 and in communication with the battery 150. In someembodiments, the device 100 may include a field-effect transistor (FET)to maintain a substantially constant current over time, e.g., as thebattery 150 drains of power, to maintain consistent light output fromthe device 100.

The device 100 may include at least one light 155, such as alight-emitting diode (LED). While FIGS. 1A and 1C show device 100 asincluding 10 lights 155, any number of lights 155 may be used. Forexample, the device 100 may include one light 155 (see, e.g., FIGS. 12Aand 12B discussed below), or a plurality of 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10,11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 or more lights 155. In someembodiments, for example, the number of lights 155 of the device 100 mayrange from about 10 to about 50, such as from about 20 to about 40, orfrom about 25 to about 35. The lights 155 may be different colors, andmay be configured to emit visible light (e.g., red, orange, yellow,green, blue, violet, and/or white light), infrared light, and/orultraviolet light (e.g., UV-A, UV-B, and/or UV-C). In some embodiments,the lights 155 configured to emit different wavelengths of light, e.g.,combinations of visible light LEDs and UV light LEDs, or visible lightLEDs and infrared LEDs. The lights 155 may be configured to alternate orcycle between different wavelength of light, such as alternating red,orange, yellow, green, blue, violet, and white light, and may becombined to generate additional hues of light, such as magenta, cyan,and amber.

The light(s) 155 may be coupled to the PCB assembly 124. The lights 155may have any suitable arrangement on the PCB, e.g., disposed around thebattery 150, on opposite sides of the battery 150, adjacent to thebattery 150, etc. The lights 155 may be positioned or oriented to emitlight generally perpendicular to the PCB assembly 124, or may bepositioned or oriented at an incline in order to emit light at anon-perpendicular angle.

The PCB assembly 124 may include a microprocessor 153 configured tocontrol the device 100 in different operating modes and/or a transceiver157 for transmitting and/or receiving data wirelessly. For example, themicroprocessor 153 may be configured to turn the device 100 on or off,dim one or more light(s) 155, and/or turn various lights 155 on or offto achieve a particular color or effect. In some embodiments, thetransceiver 157 may receive data from a remote control 170, from theInternet, and/or via Bluetooth technology, and transmit the data to themicroprocessor 153 for initiating different operating modes of thedevice 100. For example, a user may control the operating mode of thedevice 100 via the remote control 170 and/or with a Bluetooth-enableddevice. In some embodiments, multiple devices 100 may be configured tocommunicate with each other wirelessly, e.g., via Bluetooth technology.For example, a user may use a mobile app of a smart phone or othercomputing device to selectively control an operating mode of device 100,or one or more devices 100. In one embodiment, each device 100 may beprovided with hardware and/or processing devices for implementingZ-wave, X-10, Insteon, Zigbee, C-Bus, EnOcean, KNX, and/or UPB homeautomation standards, for integrating one or more of devices 100 with ahome automation or other smarthome system, and for control using asmartphone, television, touchscreen, voice control, or any other desireduser interface. Thus, a user may selectively link together a pluralityof devices 100 for integrated control, synchronized powering on,synchronized powering off, synchronized color changes, synchronizedflickering, and so on. Moreover, the user may selectively link eachdevice 100 with a smartphone and/or smart home system for controlling anoperating mode of the device according to a location of the user, alocation of the device relative to a geofence, a location of the devicerelative to another location, and/or a location of the device relativeto another device.

As mentioned above, the solar panel 160 may be disposed opposite the PCBassembly 124. Any suitable solar panel 160 may be used in the device100. In some embodiments, the solar panel 160 may comprise silicon,e.g., polycrystalline silicon, backed by a support material, such aspolycarbonate or other plastic or polymer. Exemplary voltages of thesolar panel 160 may generally range from about 4V to about 8V, e.g.,about 5V, about 6V, or about 7V, but other voltages are encompassed bythe disclosure herein.

The power button 180, display 182, and sensor 184 may be coupled to thePCB assembly 124 on the same side as the solar panel 160, as shown inFIG. 1B. The solar panel 160 may comprise two arrays of solar cells withspace therebetween, e.g., for placement of one or more of the powerbutton 180, display 182, and sensor 184. Thus, for example, the solarpanel 160, battery 150, microprocessor 153, lights 155, power button180, display 182, and sensor 184 may be in communication with oneanother via the PCB assembly 124 for operating and controlling thedevice 100. The power button 180, display 182, and sensor 184 need notbe between arrays of solar cells, however, and may be disposed on otherportions of the PCB assembly 124, e.g., adjacent to the solar panel 160.

The frame 126 may be coupled to the PCB assembly 124, and may include awindow generally corresponding to the dimensions of the solar panel 160to allow natural and/or artificial light to reach the solar panel 160for charging. The frame 126 may include one or more other windows asneeded to allow access to the power button 180, display 182, and/orsensor 184. Exemplary materials for the frame 126 include, but are notlimited to, paper-based materials such as cardstock, and plastics andother polymers. The second outer panel 128 may comprise clear PVC orother materials that allow light to reach the solar panel 160 forcharging. In some embodiments, the second outer panel 128 may overlay atleast a portion of the power button 180, display 182, and/or sensor 184,or may include cut-out areas to permit environmental exposure (e.g.,allowing the sensor 184 to detect environmental conditions) and/or topermit uninhibited exposure to the solar panel 160.

The reflector 122 may include one or more openings 123, each opening 123generally aligned with the one or more lights 155 of the PCB assembly124. For example, in the device 100 comprising ten lights 155 as shownin FIG. 1C, the reflector 122 may include ten openings 123, one opening123 generally aligned with each light 155 to allow emitted light to passthrough the reflector 122 and into the housing 101. The reflector 122may be rigid, and may be configured to reflect emitted light from theinner surface of the reflector 122. For example, the reflector 122 maycomprise rigid PVC with reflective plating. The second inner panel 120may comprise clear PVC or other materials that allow emitted light topass into the housing 101. The second inner panel 120 may form anairtight and/or watertight seal with the side wall(s) 106 to form aninflatable housing, and/or may form an airtight and/or watertight sealwith the reflector 122, e.g., to protect electronic components of thesecond wall 104 against humidity and/or possible damage.

Further referring to FIG. 1C, the first wall 102 may include an outerpanel 138 (e.g., a first outer panel 138), a disc 132, and an innerpanel 130 (e.g., a first inner panel 130). In some embodiments, the disc132 may be rigid, comprising a rigid plastic material such as Mylar(polyethylene terephthalate (PET)) or PVC. Similar to the reflector 122,the disc 132 may be configured to reflect emitted light from the insidesurface of the disc 132. For example, the disc 132 may comprise areflective coating or plating. The first inner panel 130 may compriseclear PVC or other materials that allow emitted light to passtherethrough to reach the disc 132 and reflect back into the housing101. The first inner panel 130 may form an airtight and/or watertightseal with the disc 132. The first outer panel 138 may be flexible orrigid, e.g., comprising plastics such as PVC or other polymers, orpaper-based materials such as cardstock. In some embodiments, at least aportion of each of the first inner panel 130, disc 132, and first outerpanel 138 may comprise clear PVC or similarly transparent or translucentmaterials to allow light to pass through the first wall 102. In someembodiments, at least a portion of the first wall 102 may be opaque.

FIG. 1C is exemplary, such that the device 100 may include additional orfewer components than shown. For example, in some embodiments, thedevice 100 may not include one or more of the second inner panel 120,first inner panel 130, or disc 132.

At least a portion of the housing 101 may be transparent or translucentto allow the passage of light therethrough. For example, the first wall102 and/or the side wall(s) 106, or portions thereof, may betransparent, e.g., comprising a clear plastic material. In someembodiments, the first wall 102 and/or side wall(s) 106 may be at leastpartially translucent, e.g., such that light emitted inside the housing101 may diffuse through the first wall 102 and/or side wall(s) 106. Anyof the first wall 102, second wall, 104, or side wall(s) 106 may beconfigured to the affect the quality, hue, intensity, and/or amount oflight that passes therethrough. In at least one embodiment, the sidewall(s) 106 may be configured to diffuse light to provide for a frostedeffect or a warm, diffused glow. The inside surfaces of the housing 101may be configured to enhance or diminish transmission of light throughthe housing 101. For example, the inside surfaces one or more of thefirst wall 102, second wall 104, and side wall(s) 106 may include areflective coating. Further, for example, portions of the housing 101may be configured to selectively transmit or block particularwavelengths of light. Any of the first wall 102, second wall 104, orside wall(s) 106 may include different colors and/or patterns to affectthe light that passes therethrough.

As illustrated in FIG. 1D, the device 100 may include a design 195,e.g., comprising graphics and/or lettering. The design 195 may beincorporated into the inside and/or outside surface(s) of the sidewall(s) 106, such as via etching, stenciling, an adhesive, orincorporated into the material of the side wall(s) 106, or may comprisepart of a screen or covering configured to fit on or around the device100. The design 195 may include different colors, textures, and/or orpatterns configured to affect the diffusion of light therethrough. Thedesign 195 may be seasonal (e.g., winter, summer, etc.), may relate toholidays (e.g., Halloween, Christmas, Hanukkah, Valentine's Day, etc.),may be associated with an event such as a birthday or anniversary,and/or may incorporate other types of designs, such as stellarconstellations.

In some embodiments, the device 100 may include one or more handles 105,e.g., for carrying the device 100, or hanging the device 100 from awall, ceiling, or other support. Referring to FIGS. 1A and 1B, forexample, the device 100 may include a first handle 105 a on the outersurface of the first wall 102 (e.g., coupled to the first outer panel138), and a second handle 105 b on an outer surface of the second wall104 (e.g., coupled to the second outer panel 128). The second handle 105b may be oriented with respect to the solar panel 160 to minimizeoverlap with the solar panel 160. For example, the width of the secondhandle 105 b may generally overlay the space between arrays of solarcells on the solar panel 160, as shown in FIG. 1B. Other orientationsare possible, such as the second handle 105 b extending across solarcell arrays (see, e.g., FIG. 3B). In some embodiments, the device 100may include only a first handle 105 a, only a second handle 105 b, ormay not include any handles. The handles 105 a, 105 b may be flexible,e.g., such that they may lie flat against the housing 101 when not inuse. Exemplary materials for the handles 105 a, 105 b include plasticssuch as PVC or PE, or other polymers.

The handles 105 a, 105 b may be fixedly attached to the housing 101(e.g. via welding or permanent adhesive), or may be at least partiallydetachable. For example, one or both ends of each handle 105 a, 105 bmay be detachable from the housing 101, e.g., via a snap-fit connection,Velcro, or other suitable removable connection. In some embodiments, thehandles 105 a, 105 b be integral with the housing 101, forming part ofthe first wall 102 or the second wall 104.

Other types of handles may be used for the devices disclosed herein.FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate top and bottom views, respectively, of anexemplary device 200 that may include any of the features of device 100described above. For example, the device 200 may include a housing 201,and first and second handles 205 a, 205 b coupled to the housing 201.One or both handles 205 a, 205 b may include a loop 207 a, 207 b, e.g.,to facilitate hanging the device 200 from a support.

In some embodiments, the device 200 may include an adapter assembly 215corresponding to each handle 205 a, 205 b, e.g., for clipping the device200 to a support. For example, the adapter assembly 215 may facilitatetransporting the device 200, e.g., by clipping the device 200 to abackpack or bicycle. The adapter assembly 215 may be configured toattach to the loop 207 a, 207 b via any suitable removable connection,such as a split ring or carabiner. In at least one embodiment, theadapter assembly 215 may comprise a split ring coupled to a barrelswivel (fishing swivel). The loops 207 a, 207 b of the handles 205 a,205 b may be relatively rigid or reinforced to increase their durabilityfor repeated clipping and unclipping.

FIGS. 3A-3C illustrate another exemplary device 300, which may becollapsible and portable, and may include any of the features of devices100 and/or 200 discussed above. In some embodiments, the device 300 mayinclude a housing 301 with dimensions that make it relatively morecompact than device 100 discussed above, e.g., having a smaller heightand/or width. In some embodiments, the dimensions and/or operating modesof the device 300 may be useful in case of emergency (see discussionbelow), although the device 300 is not limited to such uses. The housing301 may include a first wall 302, a second wall 304, and one or moreside walls 306, e.g., one generally cylindrical side wall 306. The firstwall 302 may include a valve 310, e.g., substantially similar to thevalve 110 of device 100. The second wall 104 may include a solar panel360 and power button 380, e.g., substantially similar to the solar panel160 and power button 180, respectively, discussed above. While notshown, the device 300 may include a display, e.g., a power levelindicator, and/or may include a sensor substantially similar to thedisplay 182 and sensor 184, respectively, discussed above.

As shown in the exploded view of FIG. 3C, the first wall 302 may includea first outer panel 338, a disc 332, and a first inner panel 330; andthe second wall 304 may include a second inner panel 320, a reflector322, a PCB assembly 324, a frame 326, and a second outer panel 328. ThePCB assembly 324 may include any of the features of the PCB assembly 124discussed above. For example, the PCB assembly 324 may include a battery350, such as a lithium iron phosphate battery, and one or more lights355, e.g., a plurality of LEDs (e.g., four LEDs as shown). The lights355 may be disposed in a pattern in the central area of the PCB assembly324, as illustrated in FIG. 3C, or any other suitable arrangement. Thereflector 322 may include an opening 323 generally aligned with eachlight 355, e.g., a plurality of four openings 323 to allow emitted lightto pass through the reflector 322 and into the housing 301. Thereflector 322 may comprise a rigid plastic such as PVC with a reflectiveplating or coating. The second inner panel 320 may be flexible, and maycomprise clear PVC or other materials configured to allow light emittedfrom the LEDs to pass into the housing 301. While not shown, the PCBassembly 324 may include a microprocessor substantially similar to themicroprocessor 153 discussed above, e.g., for operating and controllingthe device 300.

In some embodiments, the inner surface of the second wall 304 may be atleast partially inclined. For example, the reflector 322 and/or thesecond inner panel 320 may have inclined edges to form a generallyfrustoconical shape. The second inner panel 320 may form an airtightand/or watertight seal with the reflector 322.

As mentioned above, devices according to the present disclosure may beconfigured to provide for a flashlight or spotlight effect. FIGS. 12Aand 12B show an exemplary device 1200, which may include any of thefeatures of devices 100, 200, and/or 300 discussed above. For example,the device 1200 may include a housing including a first wall 1202, asecond wall 1204, and one or more side walls 1206. The first wall 1202may include a valve 1210, e.g., substantially similar to valves 110and/or 310 of devices 100 and 300, respectively. The second wall 1204may include a solar panel 1260, which may be substantially similar tosolar panels 160 and/or 360 of devices 100 and 300, respectively, ahandle 1205, and a power button 1280.

As shown, the device 1200 may include only one light, e.g., one LED1255, coupled to a portion of the second wall 1204, such as a PCBassembly. The LED 1255 may be configured to emit any color of lightand/or to cycle between different colors. The second wall 1204 mayinclude a reflector 1222, which may include any of the features ofreflectors 122 and/or 322 of devices 100 or 300, respectively. Thereflector 1222 may include a single opening 1223 generally aligned withthe LED 1255 to allow light emitted from the LED 1255 to pass throughthe reflector 1222 and into the housing. In some embodiments, the innersurface 1222 a of the reflector 1222 may be reflective, and may beconcave in order to focus the light towards the center of the first wall1202 to exit the housing. For example, at least a portion of the firstwall 1202 may be transparent or translucent to allow light to passtherethrough. In some embodiments, the side wall(s) 1206 may beconfigured to at least partially reflect light emitted from the LED 1255into the housing to exit through the first wall 1202, or may beconfigured to at least partially block light from exiting through theside wall(s) 1206 in order to exit through the first wall 1202.

The present disclosure is not limited to the particular configurationsand features depicted in the figures and discussed above. For example,devices according to the present disclosure may include other types andconfigurations of valves than valves 110, 210, 310 and 1210 discussedabove, e.g., configured to control the ingress and egress of air (orother suitable gas) into and out of the devices.

Any of the devices disclosed herein may be configured to operateaccording to at least one protocol or operating mode. While thefollowing discussion may refer to certain features of the device 100 ofFIGS. 1A-1D for illustration purposes, the features and principles areapplicable to any other device disclosed herein.

In an exemplary “normal” operating mode, the device 100 may operatewithin a set of default or average operating parameters. For example,initiating the normal mode may cause the battery 150 to operate at anaverage voltage, and may turn on all or only some of the lights 155(e.g., LEDs). In a “sleep” or “off” operating mode, all lights 155(e.g., LEDs), of the device 100 may be turned off. In some embodiments,the battery 150 may continue to provide power to one or more othercomponents of the PCB assembly 124, such as the sensor 184,microprocessor 153, and/or transceiver 157.

The device 100 may include one or more operating modes wherein thebattery 150 may operate at voltages greater or less than the averagevoltage, e.g., causing the LEDs to brighten or dim, respectively. Insome embodiments, the battery 150 may operate with pulse widthmodulation (PWM), wherein the battery voltage may be modified (increasedor decreased) by changing the duty cycle. For example, the duty cyclemay be changed to cause the LEDs to flash on and off in a “flash” or“emergency” mode. All or some of the LEDs may flash on and off regularlyand/or in a specific pattern. For example, the LEDs may flash on and offto communicate textual information, such as the “SOS” distress signal inMorse code. Further, flashing frequency may operate as a timer, whereineach flash of light emitted by the device 100 corresponds to apredetermined unit of time. For example, the device 100 include anoperating mode wherein one or more LEDs may flash in a regular pattern,such as one flash per second, per 2 seconds, per 5 seconds, etc. In someembodiments, the device 100 may include a “flicker” operating mode tosimulate flickering candle light, e.g., according to an algorithm of themicroprocessor 153. Further, the device 100 may include differentoperating modes with more frequent flickering, e.g., in a “windy”operating mode, and less frequent flickering, e.g., in a “calm”operating mode.

In some embodiments, the device 100 may include LEDs or other lights 155configured to emit different types and/or colors of light (e.g.,multicolor LEDs) or light-specific (e.g., red LEDs, blue LEDs, etc.),such that the operating modes may selectively control each LED toachieve a particular color or effect. The device 100 may have adifferent operating mode for each color, e.g., “red,” “orange,”“yellow,” “green,” “blue,” “violet,” and “white” modes, and/or colorcombinations thereof, such as “magenta,” “cyan,” and “amber” modes. Insome embodiments, the device 100 may be used as a fishing lightattractor, e.g., wherein operating the device 100 in a “green” operatingmode may attract fish towards the light.

Further, the device 100 may have one or more different operating modesfor each type of light, such as “infrared” and/or “UV” modes. In someembodiments, for example, the device 100 may include a “UV” operatingmode configured for water disinfection/sterilization, e.g., emittingshortwave or UV-C light within a suitable wavelength range, such as fromabout 250 nm to about 270 nm. In some embodiments, the device 100 mayhave a “UV” operating mode emitting longer wavelengths of UV light,e.g., UV-A, for recreational use, such as from about 315 nm to about 400nm. In some embodiments, the device 100 may include an “infrared”operating mode as a heat source, e.g., a low-grade or temporary sourceof heat.

In some embodiments, the device 100 may have at least “blue” and “red”operating modes, e.g., for use in a diurnal setting. For example, a usermay select the “blue” mode during the day, e.g., for an energy boost,and the “red” mode at night, e.g., to facilitate sleep or as a nightlight. The device 100 may include additional operating modes responsiveto environmental conditions detected by the sensor 184. For example, thesensor 184 may be configured to detect environmental light to determinethe diurnal cycle automatically. Thus, for example, the device 100 mayhave a “diurnal” operating mode that automatically cycles the device 100between “red” and “blue” operating modes according to the diurnal cycledetected by the sensor 184.

Further, the device 100 may have operating modes for turning the device100 on and off based on information from the sensor 184. In someembodiments, the sensor 184 may be configured to detect environmentallighting conditions, such that the device 100 may have an “auto on/off”operating mode wherein the device 100 may turn on or off based on anamount of light detected by the sensor 184. For example, the device 100may turn all LEDs on when the sensor 184 detects light equal or greaterthan a threshold value, and/or may turn all LEDs off when the lightfalls below the threshold value, or vice versa.

In some embodiments, the device 100 may be configured to generate sound.For example, the device 100 may include a speaker integrated into thedevice 100 and/or an audio output for connection to an external speakeror audio-generating or audio-amplifying device. The device 100 mayinclude one or more operating modes for generating various sounds,including, but not limited to, white noise, babbling brook, wind,lightning storm, bird sounds, crickets, waterfall, rainfall, and/orcrashing waves, among other natural soundscapes. Further, the device 100may play music, e.g., via an integrated MP3 player (or other suitableaudio player) and/or by connecting the device 100 to an MP3 player (orother suitable audio player).

Various operating modes of the device 100 may combine light and sound.For example, the device 100 may be configured to modify light outputfrom one or more lights 155 according to the sound and/or rhythm ofmusic generated and/or detected by the device 100. For example, thesensor 184 may be configured to detect one or more characteristics ofthe sound waves, e.g., frequency (pitch), amplitude (loudness), and/orrhythmic patterns. Data from the sensor 184 may be communicated to themicroprocessor 153 for operating and controlling the device 100 based onthe one or more characteristics of the sound waves. In one embodiment,the color and/or intensity of light may be automatically adjusted basedon a detected tone of music and/or a tone of a detected human voice.Alternatively, the color and/or intensity of light may change based on adetected volume of sound (music or voice), a detected pitch of sound(music or voice), or a detected mood of sound (music or voice).

In some embodiments, the device 100 may be configured to cycle throughtwo or more different operating modes. Each operating mode may beinitiated on-demand via user input and/or may operate according to anautomatic transition sequence. In some embodiments, for example, eachpush of the power button (e.g., power button 180 of device 100 shown inFIG. 1B) may initiate a change of the LED color from one color to thenext, between being in an off position to being in an “on” position. Forexample, a first push of the button may select a first color, a secondpush of the button may select a second color, and so on. Alternativelyor additionally, the power button may be selectively operated to placethe device in an automatic “color cycling” mode, e.g., a transitionsequence. For example, the device 100 may include a “color cycle”operating mode that changes colors according to a preset or randomizedalgorithm of the microprocessor 153. For example, in a “color cycle”operating mode, the device 100 may alternate or cycle between multiplecolors, e.g., from red light to green, blue, magenta, yellow, cyan,orange, and white light, reinitiating the cycle by emitting red light,etc. The “color cycle” operating mode may include any number of colorsand/or sequence of colors. The device 100 may emit each color of lightfor a given period of time before changing to the next color. Forexample, the device 100 may emit red light (or any other color) fromabout 3 second to about 5 minutes, e.g., about 5, about 10, about 15,about 30, or about 45 seconds, about 1 minute, or about 3 minutes. Thedevice 100 may fade in and out of each color, such that one colorgradually transitions into the subsequent color, e.g., over a period oftime from about 1 second to about 5 seconds, e.g., about 2 or 3 seconds.The device 100 may achieve a fading effect by increasing and decreasingthe intensity of the LEDs, e.g., via changing the PWM duty cycle withrespect to each LED color. For example, the intensity of the LEDs may bechanged to provide for fading in and out by modifying the duty cycle onthe order of milliseconds.

In at least one embodiment, the microprocessor 153 is configured tocontrol a plurality of operating modes of the LEDs based on selection ofa button, e.g., the power button, for controlling selection of at leastone of the operating modes of the LEDs. In one embodiment, themicroprocessor 153 enables changing a color of light emitted from thehousing such that a first press of the button causes the plurality ofLEDs to emit a first color of light, a second press of the button causesthe plurality of LEDs to emit a second color of light, a third press ofthe button causes the plurality of LEDs to emit a third color of light,and an nth press of the button causes the plurality of LEDs to initiatea transition sequence, the transition sequence causing the plurality ofLEDs to begin emitting the first color of light, gradually change to thesecond color of light, gradually change to the third color of light, andgradually change to the nth color of light. For example, a first pressof the button may cause the LEDs to emit red light, a second press ofthe button may cause the LEDs to emit orange light, a third press of thebutton may cause the LEDs to emit yellow light, a fourth press of thebutton may cause the LEDs to emit green light, a fifth press of thebutton may cause the LEDs to emit green light, a sixth press of thebutton may cause the LEDs to emit blue light, and so on. In at least oneembodiment, if the microprocessor is programmed to cause the button toselectively cycle between “n” colors, then pressing the button one moretime, i.e., n+1 times, causes the microprocessor to initiate the LEDs tocycle through a transition sequence between all “n” colors.

For initiating different operating modes, the device 100 may acceptinput via the power button 180 (e.g., manual input), the sensor 184(e.g., environmental input), and/or the transceiver 157 (e.g., wirelessinput). In some embodiments, pushing the power button 180 a certainnumber of times may signal the device 100 to initiate a particularoperating mode. For example, pushing the power button 180 once mayinitiate a “normal” operating mode, turning all of the LEDs of thedevice 100 on (e.g., with respect to a “sleep” mode as discussed above),pushing the power button 180 twice may increase the intensity of theLEDs in a “high” operating mode, pushing the power button 180 threetimes may decrease the intensity of the LEDs in a “low” operating mode,pushing the power button 180 four times may cause the LEDs to flash inan “emergency” operating mode, and pushing the power button five timesmay turn all of the LEDs off, e.g., returning the device 100 to the“sleep” operating mode. In some embodiments, holding the power button180 down for a specific amount of time may initiate different modes. Forexample, a user may push the power button 180 down for about 1 second toinitiate the “normal” mode, about 2 seconds for the “high mode,” about 3seconds for the “low” mode, about 4 seconds for the “emergency mode,”and about 5 seconds for the “sleep” mode.

In addition to manual input, or as an alternative, the device 100 maychange between different operating modes based on data from the sensor184. As mentioned above, the sensor 184 may detect changes in one ormore environmental conditions, such as lighting, sound, motion, and/ormoisture. Once the parameter measured by the sensor 184 equals, exceeds,or falls below a threshold value, the microprocessor 153 may beprogrammed to initiate a particular operating cycle. Examples includethe “diurnal,” and “auto on/off” operating modes discussed above, butare not limited to those examples, and are not limited to operatingmodes based on the sensor 184 measuring lighting conditions. Further,the device 100 may accept input wirelessly that signals to the device100 to initiate different operating modes. For example, a user may usethe remote control 170 to switch from one operating mode to another. Insome embodiments, input via the power button 180 or wireless input viathe transceiver 157 may override environmental input via the sensor 184.

In some embodiments, the microprocessor 153 may be pre-programmed toinitiate different modes at different times. For example, themicroprocessor 153 may include an algorithm to run the device 100 in a“blue” operating mode from 7 am to 7 pm, and a “red” operating mode from7 pm to 7 am. In some embodiments, input via the power button 180 orwireless input via the transceiver 157 may override the pre-programmingof the microprocessor 153. Any of the aforementioned operating modes maybe combined with music, e.g., an alarm operating mode wherein the device100 plays music and/or adjusts light output at a predetermined time,such as a wake-up alarm.

While the above discussion illustrates exemplary inflatable devices 100,200, 300, and 1200, the present disclosure is not limited to inflation.FIGS. 4A-4C show an exemplary collapsible device 400 that need not beinflated to expand the device 400. FIGS. 4A and 4B show top and bottomviews, respectively, of the device 400 in a collapsed configuration, andFIG. 4C shows the device 400 in an expanded configuration. The device400 may comprise a housing 401 including a first wall 402, a second wall404, and one or more side walls 406. The side wall(s) 406 may includeone or more folds 406 a in the width dimension (e.g., the fold(s) 406 abeing substantially parallel to the first and second walls 402, 404) toallow the adjacent folded portions to collapse upon one another, e.g.,similar to the bellows of an accordion.

The device 400 may include a spring-load mechanism, e.g., in the secondwall 404, which, when actuated, may cause the side wall(s) 406 to expandand/or collapse, thereby expanding and/or collapsing the housing 401.For example, the spring-load mechanism may cause the first wall 402 tomove away from the second wall 404 to expand the housing 401, and/or tomove towards the second wall 404 to collapse the housing 401. In someembodiments, the device 400 may be inflatable, rather than spring-loadexpandable.

The side wall(s) 406 may include any of the shapes, sizes,configurations, and/or features of the side wall(s) 106 of device 100discussed above. In some embodiments, the side wall(s) 406 may comprisepolypropylene, e.g., with a shiny or matte finish. The side wall(s) 406may comprise any other suitable materials, such as paper (e.g., paperwith a plastic backing, or otherwise configured to be airtight and watertight or moisture-resistant) or other materials.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4C, the first wall 402 may be at leastpartially angled or inclined, having an angled surface 402 a. An innerportion 403 of the first wall 402 may be opaque, and may define anopening 409 configured to allow light to pass therethrough. For example,the opening 409 may comprise clear PVC or other transparent ortranslucent materials. In some embodiments, for example, the first wall402 may include an outer sheet or covering of clear PVC. The angledsurface 402 a or portions thereof may be opaque, transparent, ortranslucent. In some embodiments, the inner portion 403 may serve tofocus light emitted from the housing 401 into a beam as it passesthrough the opening 409. For example, the device 400 may provide afocused beam of light similar to a flashlight. In some embodiments, theinner portion 403 may comprise part of a removable sleeve or end capconfigured to fit onto the first wall 402 to focus the light emittedfrom the housing 401.

As shown in FIG. 4B, the second wall 404 may include a solar panel 460,which may include any of the features of the solar panel 106 of device100 discussed above. In some embodiments, the solar panel 406 mayinclude a single array of solar cells 406, e.g., to maximize coverage ofthe second wall 406 for energy generation. The solar panel 406 may becoupled to a PCB assembly substantially similar to the PCB assembly 124of the device 100 discussed above, e.g., the PCB assembly being coupledto a battery and one or more lights, such as LEDs. The solar panel 406may be covered by clear PVC for protection and configured to allowexposure to natural and/or artificial light for charging the battery.

Each of the first wall 402 and the second wall 404 may comprise a rigidplastic material, a metal, a metal alloy, or a combination thereof. Insome embodiments, each of the first and second walls 402, 404 maycomprise acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), e.g., injection-moldedABS, optionally with a metallized finish, e.g., metallized chromefinish. In some embodiments, the device 400 may include a handle 405coupled to the housing. For example, the handle 405 may be attached tothe second wall 404 as shown in FIG. 4B. In some embodiments, the ends405 a of the handle 405 may be configured to pivot with respect to thesecond wall 404 such that the handle 405 may lay flat against the secondwall 404 when not in use.

The second wall 404 may include a power button 480, and one or more of atimer button 481 and an electronic port 485. The power button 480 may beused to control different operating modes of the device 400, e.g., asdescribed above with respect to the power button 180 of device 100. Thetimer button 481 may be used to set a time at which an operating mode ofthe device 400 may be initiated. For example, the timer button 481 maycorrespond to initiation of a “dawn simulator” mode, wherein the lights(e.g., LEDs) of the device 400 gradually brighten to simulate sunrise.The “dawn simulator” mode may gradually turn on and/or increase theintensity of the LEDs over a period of time ranging from about 5 minutesto 1 hour, e.g., from about 15 minutes to about 45 minutes, e.g., about30 minutes or about 45 minutes. In some embodiments, the device 400 mayinclude a “diurnal” operating mode as discussed above, in combinationwith the “dawn simulator” mode. For example, initiation of the “dawnsimulator” mode may include gradually transitioning from red light(e.g., primarily used at night) to blue light (e.g., primarily usedduring the day).

In some embodiments, the timer button 481 may program an integer numberof hours until the “dawn simulator” mode commences. In some embodiments,holding the timer button 481 down may cause a timer LED to flashsequentially. The timer LED may be inside the housing 401, locatedwithin the timer button 481 or the power button 480, or may be aseparate LED indicator on the housing 401). Holding the timer button 481for about 1 second may correspond to 1 flash of the timer LED and set 1hour until the “dawn simulator” mode commences, holding for about 2seconds may correspond to two flashes and 2 hours, etc. The timer button481 may correspond to any other operating mode, including, but notlimited to, any of the operating modes discussed above. Once the timeris set, the timer LED or one or more other lights/LEDs of the device 400may flash a different color. In some embodiments, the timer button 481may be used to initiate the “sleep” mode of the device 400, therebycanceling or overriding any other operating mode. The timer button 481therefore may allow a user to turn the LEDs off without the need tocycle through other operating modes. In at least one embodiment, thedevice 400 may receive timing information for initiating differentoperating modes wirelessly or remotely. For example, the device 400 mayreceive input associated with the location, time zone, etc., of thedevice 400 from an application (“app”) on a mobile phone, a GPS device,or airplane navigation system, e.g., for syncing the device 400 to theappropriate time zone or diurnal cycle when changing locations, such asduring travel. Any other devices disclosed herein may include a timerbutton 481, e.g., for setting a desired time for a particular operatingmode to begin.

FIG. 5 illustrates exemplary packaging 590 for a device 500, suitablefor a point-of-purchase display. The device 500 may include any of thefeatures of devices 100, 200, 300, 1200, and/or 400 discussed above. Forexample, the device may include a solar panel 560, which may be visiblethrough a clear window of the packaging 590. The window may comprise aclear plastic that allows natural and/or artificial light to passthrough the packaging 590 to reach the solar panel 560. Thus, the device500 may charge while on display, such that it may be ready for use uponremoval from the packaging 590. The packaging 590 may comprise anymaterial or combination of materials to protect the device 500 while ondisplay. Exemplary materials include, but are not limited to, rigidmaterials such as cardboard or plastic.

Devices according to the present disclosure may be configured to usesolar energy generated and stored in the devices to provide power toother electronics, e.g., as a charger. For example, the devicesdisclosed herein may include at least one electronic connectorcompatible with one or more electronic devices. Exemplary electronicconnectors include, but are not limited to USB and USB-like connectors(USB-A, USB-B, micro-USB, etc.) and Lightning connectors (e.g., forelectronic devices manufactured by Apple). Any of the electronicconnectors disclosed herein may be male or female connections.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate alternative configurations of an exemplarydevice 600, which may include any of the features of devices 100, 200,300, 1200, 400, and/or 500 discussed above. The device 600 may comprisea housing that includes a second wall 604 and one or more side walls606, e.g., a single cylindrical side wall 606 as shown, or any othernumber of side walls 606. The second wall 604 may include a solar panel660.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 6A, the perimeter of the second wall604 (or the portion of the side wall(s) 606 adjacent to the second wall604) may include a recessed area or groove 640 a, and a cord 644 aconfigured to fit within the groove 640 a. In some embodiments, the cord644 a may have a generally circular cross-section. The end of the cord644 a may include an electronic connector 645 a, such as an electronicadapter or port compatible with one or more electronic devices. The cord644 a may be fixedly attached to an end 641 a of the groove 640 a. Thecord 644 a may be flexible, such that the end of the cord 644 aincluding the electronic connector 645 a may be detached and pulled awayfrom the groove 640 a in use, e.g., to charge an electronic device, suchas a mobile phone, tablet device, mp3 player, and/or other portableelectronic devices. The cord 644 a may be operably coupled to the solarpanel 660 and battery inside the device 600 in order to supply power tothe electronic device. For example, the end of the cord 644 a oppositethe electronic connector 645 a may connect to the battery of the device600 inside the second wall 604. While not in use, the electronicconnector 645 a may fit securely within a cavity 647 a along the groove640 a.

The configuration shown in FIG. 6B is similar to that of FIG. 6A,comprising a recessed area or groove 640 b extending along the perimeterof the second wall 604, and a cord 644 b configured to fit within thegroove 640 b. The cord 644 b may have a generally rectangularcross-section, e.g., with a relatively narrow depth providing for a flatshape. The cord 644 b may be flexible, and may include an electronicconnector 645 b compatible with one or more electronic devices. The cord644 b may be fixedly attached to an end 641 b of the groove 640 b.Similar to cord 644 a, the cord 644 b of FIG. 6B may be operably coupledto the solar panel 660 and the battery to provide power to the one ormore electronic devices. While not in use, the electronic connector 645b may fit securely within a cavity 647 b along the groove 640 b.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate different configurations of an exemplarydevice 700, which may include any of the features of devices 100, 200,300, 1200, 400, 500, and/or 600 discussed above. The device 700 maycomprise a housing that includes a first wall 702, a second wall 704,and one or more side walls 706. The second wall 704 may include a solarpanel 760, and the first wall 702 may include a valve 710, e.g., forinflating the housing. In some embodiments, the device 700 may notinclude a valve 710, and may be configured for expansion via aspring-load mechanism or other suitable expansion mechanism.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 7A, the device 700 may include aflexible cord 744 a configured to lay against the side of the secondwall 704, e.g., adjacent to the side wall(s) 706. The cord 744 a mayinclude an electronic connector 745 a, and may be operably coupled tothe solar panel 760 and a battery inside the device 700. While not inuse, the electronic connector 745 a may fit securely within a cavity 747a of the second wall 704, e.g., in a stored position. The cord 744 a mayinclude a flexible tab 746 a configured to be gripped by a user, e.g.,to facilitate removing the electronic connector 745 a from the cavity747 a by pulling on the tab 746 a.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 7B, the device 700 may include aflexible cord 744 b configured to lay against the first wall 702, e.g.,in a stored position. The cord 744 b may include an electronic connector745 b, and may be operably coupled to the solar panel 760 and batteryinside the device 700 via a section 748 of the cord 744 b extending fromthe first wall 702 to the second wall 704. While not in use, theelectronic connector 745 a may fit securely within a cavity 747 b of thefirst wall 704. The cord 744 b may include a flexible tab 746 b, similarto the tab 746 a of FIG. 7A.

The configurations shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B may be alternatives of eachother, e.g., the device 700 comprising either cord 744 a or cord 744 b.In some embodiments, however, the device 700 may comprise both cord 744a (attached to the second wall 704) and cord 744 b (attached to thefirst wall 702 and operably coupled to the solar panel 760 of the secondwall 704), wherein the electronic connectors 745 a, 745 b may be thesame or different types of connectors.

FIG. 8 illustrates yet another exemplary device 800 including anelectronic connector 845 compatible with one or more other electronicdevices. The device 800 may include any of the features of devices 100,200, 300, 1200, 400, 500, 600, and/or 700 discussed above. As shown, thedevice 800 may include a first wall 802, and a cord 844 extendingthrough an opening in the first wall 802. One end of the cord 844 mayinclude an electronic connector 845, and the other end of the cord maybe operably coupled to a solar panel and battery of the device 800,e.g., in the second wall 804 of the device 800. For example, a section848 of the cord 844 may extend between the first wall 802 and the secondwall 804. In some embodiments, a portion of the cord 844 may be embeddedwithin the first wall 802 (e.g., between a disc and a first outer panelsimilar to the disc 132 and the first outer panel 138, respectively, ofdevice 100). In some embodiments, the first wall 802 may include a lumenconfigured to receive a portion of the cord 844. The outer surface ofthe first wall 802 may include a groove 840 to receive the cord 844 whennot in use, e.g., in a stored position. For example, the electronicconnector 845 may fit securely within a cavity 847 at the end of thegroove 840.

While FIG. 8 illustrates the cord 844 extending from the first wall 802,in some embodiments, the cord 844 may extend from an opening in the sidewall(s) 806 or the second wall 804. For example, the second wall 804 mayinclude the solar panel, and a groove 840 adjacent to the solar panel,e.g., extending in an arc around a portion of the solar panel.

FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate alternative configurations of an exemplarydevice 900, which may include any of the features of devices 100, 200,300, 1200, 400, 500, 600, 700, and/or 800 discussed above. The device900 may comprise a housing that includes a second wall 904 and one ormore side walls 906. The second wall 904 may include a solar panel 960.

The configuration of the device 900 shown in FIG. 9A may be similar tothe configuration of the device 600 shown in FIG. 6A. For example, thedevice 900 may comprise a second wall 904 and one or more side walls906, wherein the second wall 904 includes a recessed area or groove 940,and a cord 944 a configured to fit within the groove 940. The end of thecord 944 a may include an electronic connector 945 a compatible with oneor more electronic devices. The cord 944 a may be operably coupled to asolar panel 960 and battery of the device 900. Rather than being fixedlyattached to a portion of the groove 940, however, the cord 944 a may beretractable, such that a user may pull the cord 944 a to withdraw alonger length of the cord 944 a from the device 900. The retractionmechanism also may allow the user to adjust the length of the cord 944 aby reinserting a portion of the cord 944 a into an internal portion ofthe groove 940. The retraction mechanism therefore may allow the user toadjust slack in the cord 944 a to facilitate inserting the electronicconnector 945 into an electronic device, e.g., for charging. An end ofthe groove 940 may include a cavity 947 a to receive the electronicconnector 945, e.g., in a stored position.

The configuration shown in FIG. 9B shows an alternative configuration ofthe device 900, comprising an opening 947 b in the side of the secondwall 904 through with a cord 944 b may extend. The device 900 mayinclude a retraction mechanism coupled to the second wall 904 to allow auser to increase slack in the cord 944 b by pulling on the cord 944 b inthe direction of the arrow. The retraction mechanism also may allow theuser to decrease slack in the cord 944 a by reinserting a portion of thecord 944 b into an internal cavity or groove. A portion of the cord 942proximate the electronic connector 945 may have a greatercross-sectional area than the opening 947 b to stop the cord 944 b fromcompletely withdrawing into the device 900.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate an exemplary device 1000 also comprising arefraction mechanism. The device 1000 may include any of the features ofdevices 100, 200, 300, 1200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, and/or 900discussed above. As shown, the device 1000 may comprise a housingincluding a first wall 1002, which may include a valve 1010, and one ormore side walls 1006. The device 1000 may include a cord 1044 comprisingan electronic connector 1045, wherein the cord 1044 extends from anopening 1047 in the first wall 1002. The refraction mechanism mayoperate similarly to those discussed above in connection to device 900,e.g., to allow a user to adjust slack in the cord 1044. The cord 1044may include features to prevent the cord 1044 from completelywithdrawing into the device 1000. For example, a proximal portion of thecord 1044 may have a cross-sectional area greater than a cross-sectionalarea of the opening 1047.

The first wall 1002 may include a latching mechanism, such as a stopper1041, to cover the cord 1044 and the opening 1047 when the cord 1044 isnot in use, e.g., in a stored position. The stopper 1041 may have ashape compatible with a recessed area 1042 around the opening 1047,e.g., to form a seal when closed as shown in FIG. 10B. The stopper 1041may include a tab 1046 configured to be gripped by a user to facilitateopening the stopper 1041 to access the cord 1044. The end of the cord1045 opposite the electronic connector 1045 may be operably coupled to asolar panel and battery of the device 1000, e.g., in the second wall1004 of the device 1000. For example, a section 1048 of the cord 1044may extend between the first wall 1002 and the second wall 1004. In someembodiments, a portion of the cord 1044 may extend between portions ofthe first wall 1002, similar to device 800 discussed above, such thatthe cord 1044 may be isolated from the interior of the housing. Thus, auser may withdraw and reinsert the cord 1044 when the housing isexpanded and during use of the device 1000, e.g., without compromisingan airtight and watertight seal of the expanded housing.

While FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate the cord 1044 extending from thefirst wall 1002, in some embodiments, the cord 1044 may extend from anopening in the side wall(s) 1006 or the second wall 1004. For example,the second wall 1004 may include the stopper 1041, e.g., adjacent to thesolar panel.

In addition to, or as an alternative to the electronic connectorsdiscussed above, devices according to the present disclosure may beconfigured to charge electronic devices via an induction pad. FIG. 11illustrates an exemplary device 1100, which may include any of thefeatures of devices 100, 200, 300, 1200, 400, 500, 600, 700, 800, 900,and/or 1000 discussed above. As shown, the device 1100 may comprise ahousing including a second wall 1104, a first wall, and one or more sidewalls 1106 therebetween. The side wall(s) 1106 may be flexible to allowthe housing to collapse (as shown in FIG. 11) and expand. The secondwall 1104 may include a solar panel 1160, and the first wall 1102 mayinclude an induction pad 1190 operably coupled to the solar panel 1160and to a battery of the device 1100 (not shown) likewise coupled to thesolar panel 1160.

For example, the induction pad 1190 may be positioned sufficiently closeto the solar panel 1160 and battery for charging, e.g., when the device1100 is in a collapsed configuration such that the first and secondwalls 1102, 1104 are in close proximity. In some embodiments, theinduction pad 1190 may be directly coupled to the solar panel 1160 andbattery, e.g., the induction pad 1190 being directly coupled to thesecond wall 1104. Further, in some embodiments, the first wall 1102and/or second wall 1104 may include a recessed area of suitabledimensions to receive the induction pad 1190 in a nested configuration.A user may place an electronic device 30, such as a mobile phone,against the induction pad 1190 to charge the electronic device 30. Byplacing the device 1100 such that the solar panel 1160 is exposed tonatural or artificial light, and the induction pad 1190 below is incontact with the electronic device 30, the solar panel 1160 maysimultaneously generate and/or store energy while the induction pad 1190charges the electronic device 30 via the generated/stored energy.

Any features disclosed herein in connection with one embodiment may becombined with any other embodiments. Other embodiments of the presentdisclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art fromconsideration of the specification and practice of the embodimentsdisclosed herein. It is intended that the specification and examples beconsidered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of thedisclosure indicated by the following claims.

We claim:
 1. A collapsible solar-powered lighting device comprising: ahousing including a first wall, a second wall opposite the first wall,and one or more side walls extending between the first wall and thesecond wall, wherein the first wall, second wall, and one or more sidewalls define an inflatable bladder; at least one solar panel integratedinto an outside surface of at least one of the first wall and the secondwall, thereby defining the at least one of the first wall and the secondwall that includes the at least one solar panel as an electronics wallof the housing; a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) integratedinto an inside surface of the electronics wall of the housing, theplurality of LEDs forming a generally annular arrangement and facing aninterior of the housing; a rechargeable battery integrated into theelectronics wall between the inside surface of the electronics wall andthe outside surface of the electronics wall, the rechargeable batterybeing electrically connected between the at least one solar panel andthe plurality of LEDs, such that the rechargeable battery is configuredto supply current to the plurality of LEDs and be recharged by the atleast one solar panel; a button integrated into one or more of the firstwall, the second wall, and the one or more side walls, the button beingselectable by a user to control an operating mode of the plurality ofLEDs; a microprocessor integrated into the electronics wall of thehousing between the inside surface of the electronics wall and theoutside surface of the electronics wall, the microprocessor beingelectrically connected to the button, the rechargeable battery, and theplurality of LEDs; and a current regulator coupled between therechargeable battery and the microprocessor, the current regulatormaintaining a threshold current delivered to the plurality of LEDs ascontrolled by the microprocessor; wherein the microprocessor isconfigured to control a plurality of operating modes of the LEDs, atleast one of the operating modes including changing a color of lightemitted from the housing such that a first press of the button causesthe plurality of LEDs to emit a first color of light, a second press ofthe button causes the plurality of LEDs to emit a second color of light,a third press of the button causes the plurality of LEDs to emit a thirdcolor of light, and an nth press of the button causes the plurality ofLEDs to initiate a transition sequence, the transition sequence causingthe plurality of LEDs to begin emitting the first color of light,gradually change to the second color of light, gradually change to thethird color of light, and gradually change to the nth color of light. 2.The device of claim 1, wherein the housing is inflatable to convert thehousing from a collapsed configuration to an expanded configuration. 3.The device of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the housingcomprises a biodegradable material.
 4. The device of claim 1, furthercomprising a sensor, wherein data collected by the sensor controls atleast one operating mode of the device.
 5. The device of claim 4,wherein the sensor is configured to detect light, sound, motion,moisture, or a combination thereof.
 6. The device of claim 5, whereinthe microprocessor is configured to initiate at least one operating modeof the device when the sensor detects an amount of environmental lightabove a threshold value.
 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the at leastone operating mode includes changing the color of light emitted from thehousing between red light and blue light based on the amount ofenvironmental light detected by the sensor.
 8. The device of claim 1,wherein the plurality of operating modes includes adjusting an intensityof at least a portion of the LEDs to simulate flickering light.
 9. Thedevice of claim 1, further comprising at least one transceiver forreceiving wireless input to control at least one operating mode of thedevice.
 10. The device of claim 1, further comprising a cord coupled tothe battery and extending outside of the housing, the cord including anelectronic connector.
 11. The device of claim 1, further comprising adisplay coupled to the battery for indicating an amount of powerremaining in the battery.
 12. The device of claim 1, wherein theplurality of LEDs includes LEDs that emit ultraviolet light.
 13. Thedevice of claim 1, further comprising at least one handle coupled to anouter surface of the housing and at least partially detachable from thehousing.
 14. An inflatable solar-powered lighting device comprising: ahousing including a first wall, a second wall opposite the first wall,and one or more side walls extending between the first wall and thesecond wall, wherein the first wall, second wall, and one or more sidewalls define an airtight inflatable bladder; at least one solar panelintegrated into an outside surface of at least one of the first wall andthe second wall; a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) integratedinto an inside surface of the at least one of the first wall and thesecond wall, the plurality of LEDs arranged in a generally annulararrangement and facing an interior of the airtight inflatable bladderdefined by the first wall, second wall, and one or more side walls; arechargeable battery integrated into the at least one of the first walland the second wall between the inside surface of the at least one ofthe first wall and the second wall and the outside surface of the atleast one of the first wall and the second wall, the rechargeablebattery being electrically connected between the at least one solarpanel and the plurality of LEDs, such that the rechargeable battery isconfigured to supply current to the plurality of LEDs and be rechargedby the at least one solar panel; a button integrated into one or more ofthe first wall, the second wall, and the one or more side walls, thebutton being selectable by a user to control an operating mode of theplurality of LEDs; a microprocessor integrated into the at least one ofthe first wall and the second wall between the inside surface of the atleast one of the first wall and the second wall and the outside surfaceof the at least one of the first wall and the second wall, themicroprocessor being electrically connected between the button, thebattery, and the plurality of LEDs; and a current regulator coupledbetween the rechargeable battery and the microprocessor, the currentregulator maintaining a threshold current delivered to the plurality ofLEDs as controlled by the microprocessor; wherein the microprocessor isconfigured to control a plurality of operating modes of the LEDs, atleast one of the operating modes including changing a color of lightemitted from the housing.
 15. The device of claim 14, further comprisingat least one transceiver configured to receive wireless input andtransmit the wireless input to the microprocessor to control at leastone operating mode of the device.
 16. The device of claim 14, whereinthe microprocessor includes an algorithm for controlling the LEDs tosimulate flickering light.
 17. The device of claim 14, wherein thebattery operates with pulse width modulation, and at least one operatingmode of the device includes modifying a duty cycle of the battery tochange an intensity of light emitted from the LEDs into the housing. 18.A collapsible solar-powered lighting device comprising: a housingincluding a first wall, a second wall opposite the first wall, and oneor more side walls extending between the first wall and the second wall,wherein the first wall, second wall, and one or more side walls definean inflatable bladder; at least one solar panel integrated into anoutside surface of at least one of the first wall and the second wall,the solar panel defining the at least one of the first wall and thesecond wall as an electronics wall of the housing; a plurality oflight-emitting diodes (LEDs) integrated into an inside surface of theelectronics wall of the housing, the plurality of LEDs arranged in agenerally annular arrangement and facing an interior of the inflatablebladder defined by the first wall, second wall, and one or more sidewalls; a rechargeable battery integrated into the electronics wall ofthe housing between the inside surface of the electronics wall and theoutside surface of the electronics wall, the rechargeable battery beingelectrically connected between the at least one solar panel and theplurality of LEDs, such that the rechargeable battery is configured tosupply current to the plurality of LEDs and be recharged by the at leastone solar panel; a button integrated into one or more of the first wall,the second wall, and the one or more side walls, the button beingselectable by a user to control an operating mode of the plurality ofLEDs; and a microprocessor integrated into the electronics wall of thehousing between the inside surface of the electronics wall and theoutside surface of the electronics wall, the microprocessor beingelectrically connected between the button, the battery, and theplurality of LEDs; wherein the microprocessor is configured to control aplurality of operating modes of the LEDs, at least one of the operatingmodes including changing a color of light emitted from the housing suchthat a first press of the button causes the plurality of LEDs to emit afirst color of light, a second press of the button causes the pluralityof LEDs to emit a second color of light, and a third press of the buttoncauses the plurality of LEDs to emit a third color of light.
 19. Thedevice of claim 18, wherein the sensor is configured to detect light,and the microprocessor is configured to initiate at least one operatingmode of the device when the sensor detects an amount of light above athreshold value.
 20. The device of claim 19, wherein the microprocessoris configured to supply or terminate power to the plurality of LEDs whenthe amount of light detected by the sensor exceeds the threshold value.